Ostomy Bag Vs Colostomy Bag: What’S The Difference?

2025-12-01
Author: Zodelo Ostomy

Ostomy bag vs colostomy bag: what’s the difference? Overall, “ostomy bag” is the general term for all Ostomy bags, including the colostomy bag. Colostomy bags are only suitable for patients with colostomy, while colostomy bags are applicable to all patients undergoing colostomy surgery. Whether it is the ostomy bag or the colostomy bag, both can effectively collect excrement and help stoma patients return to a normal life. After a better understanding of ostomy bag vs colostomy bag. Only in this way can the stoma be cared for more scientifically and reasonably, and a healthy and comfortable life be achieved.

Zodelo is well aware that the stoma bag is of vital importance to stoma patients. Therefore, based on user experience, we are committed to developing the highest quality and safest ostomy bags to enable users to enjoy a more comfortable and reassuring life. Meanwhile, Zodelo also provides you with the most comprehensive and detailed information on ostomy care. This article will provide you with a detailed analysis of ostomy bag vs colostomy bag.

Common Types of Ostomies: Colostomy, Ileostomy, and Urostomy

When comparing ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, it is first necessary to understand the Common Types of Ostomies.

Colostomyis a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part of the colon from the abdominal wall to create a new excretory passage within the abdominal cavity. When patients are unable to excrete normally due to diseases such as colorectal cancer, diverticulitis or intestinal perforation, intestinal obstruction, trauma or surgical complications, and congenital anal atresia, colostomy is required. Feces will be discharged into the ostomy pocket through the stoma, thereby replacing the original excretory function.
Ileostomyis a surgical procedure in which the end of the ileum is removed from the abdominal wall to form a stoma. It is commonly seen in inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), colon or rectal cancer, intestinal perforation or necrosis, familial adenomatous polyposis and other diseases. Patients with these diseases need to undergo ileostomy. Feces will be discharged into the ostomy pocket through the stoma, replacing the original excretory function. Most of the patient’s excrement is liquid feces.
Urostomyis a surgical procedure aimed at establishing a new urine drainage channel in the patient’s abdomen. When a patient has bladder cancer, bladder radiation injury, traumatic bladder rupture or congenital urethral malformations, the bladder or urethra cannot urinate normally. Doctors will use an ileal catheter to create a permanent or temporary stoma in the patient’s abdomen to expel urine from the kidneys and collect urine using a urinary tract stoma bag.

Ostomy Types	Part	Excrement
Colostomy	Large intestine (colon	Solid feces
Ileostomy	Small intestine (ileum	Loose stools and digestive juices
Urostomy	Urinary tract/ureter	Urine

What to know about an ostomy bag

1. What is an ostomy bag and pouching system?

When comparing ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, it is also necessary to understand what is an ostomy bag. The ostomy bag is a medical device specially designed for patients who have undergone stoma surgery, used to collect the excrement discharged from the stoma. After undergoing colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy surgeries, patients are unable to excrete through the intestines or anus. The stoma temporarily or permanently takes over this function, helping patients return to a normal life.

2. How does an ostomy bag work?

When comparing ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, it is also necessary to understand, it is also necessary to understand the composition of the ostomy bag.

The bag body: The bag body of the ostomybag is usually made of materials with strong leak-proof, odor-proof and skin-friendly softness, and is used for collecting feces and urine.
Skin Barrier:Basically made of skin-friendly and leak-proof hydrocolloid or silicone material, it is adhered around the stoma skin to fix the bag body, and has the functions of preventing leakage and protecting the skin.
Discharge outlet: It is usually a closed or dischargeable discharge outlet. The open discharge outlet can discharge excrement and is sealed by clips or sealing strips.
Activated carbon filter:An activated carbon filter is not essential for making bags, but it can be used to absorb odors and prevent bag swelling.

3. What are the different types of ostomy bags?

The main difference between ostomy bag vs colostomy bag is that the types of ostomy bag include colostomy bag. The main types of Ostomy bags are as follows:

Colostomy Bag: Suitable for colostomy. The stoma is located in the large intestine. The excrement is mainly formed feces. Colostomy bags are mostly equipped with activated carbon filters for odor control. It has a medium capacity and is suitable for patients with regular bowel movements.
Ileostomy Bag: Suitable for ileostomy. The stoma is located in the ileum at the end of the small intestine. The excrement is mainly loose or liquid. Ileostomy bags are mostly open-top. It has a large capacity. It is usually equipped with a stronger leak-proof skin barrier. Patients change it more frequently.
Urostomy Bag: Suitable for ileal conduit or ureterostomy. The excrement is mainly urine and is continuously discharged. The Urostomy Bag is equipped with an anti-reflux valve to prevent urine reflux. The bottom is generally a tap outlet.

4. What is the difference between a one-piece and a two-piece ostomy bag pouching system?

	One-Piece Ostomy Bag	Two-Piece Ostomy Bag
Structure	The pouch and the skin barrier are integrated	The pouch is separated from the wafer
Thickness	Thinner, more invisible and comfortable	Relatively thick and slightly prominent
For the skin	Unfriendly (Frequent removal of the chassis)	Friendly (The chassis can be used for a long time)
Change method	Overall replacement	The Wafer is continuously adhered to the skin, and only the pouch needs to be replaced
Convenient operation	Simple	Easier and more conducive to multiple emissions
Applicable stoma type	Biased towards colostomy	It is more suitable for ileostomy and urostomy
Cost	low	Higher

What to know about a colostomy bag

1. What is a Colostomy Bag?

To understand ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, it is also necessary to know what is colostomy bag. The colostomy bag is a fecal collection bag specially designed for patients undergoing colostomy surgery. They usually consist of a sealed collection bag and a bonded skin barrier. The skin barrier is adhered to the skin to replace the original excretory function, helping patients keep themselves clean and hygienic at all times and prevent wounds from being contaminated by excreta.

2. Types of Colostomy Bags

When comparing ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, it is also necessary to understand types of colostomy bags.

a. One piece colostomy bag:

The bottom of the one-piece colostomy bag is connected to the bag body and cannot be separated. It can be used as a whole. When replacing, just tear it off as a whole directly. Simple to do, with few steps, convenient and fast.

b. Two piece colostomy bag:

The base of the two-piece colostomy bag is separated from the bag body and connected together through a mechanical coupling system. The Skin barrier can adhere to the skin and be reused many times. When changing, only the bag body needs to be replaced, which can reduce the irritation to the skin caused by frequent changes and base tearing. It is more skin-friendly and more economical.

c. Drainable colostomy bag:

There is an opening at the bottom of the Drainable colostomy bag for discharging excrement. It can be reused many times after being emptied. It doesn’t need to be replaced frequently, reduces irritation to the stoma, is more skin-friendly and economical.

d. Closed-end colostomy bag:

The bottom of the Closed-end colostomy bag is sealed and cannot be discharged. Single-use, discard after use, convenient and fast, no need to empty or clean, simple to operate.

Who needs Colostomy Bags?

When a patient has the following diseases, a colostomy bag needs to be worn:

Colorectal cancer: Colorectal cancer can cause intestinal stenosis and even complete obstruction, requiring the removal of the anus and rectum. Therefore, a colostomy is necessary to expel feces.
Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colon cancer: These diseases can cause repeated inflammation, ulcers, and even perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, a temporary stoma needs to be set up to prevent excrement from irritating the intestines.
Intestinal obstruction:If acute intestinal obstruction is caused by inflammation or tumor, making the patient’s intestine temporarily unusable, a temporary colostomy needs to be established through surgery, and a temporary colostomy bag should be used to prevent intestinal perforation. The stoma can be cancelled only after the intestinal function returns to normal.
Traumatic intestinal injury: Due to trauma causing damage to the intestine or anus, to prevent further contamination and deterioration of the injured area, a stoma needs to be set up to temporarily expel feces, allowing the injured area to heal better.
Congenital megacolon: At birth, due to the lack of intestinal ganglion cells, the intestine cannot move and digest normally, and feces cannot be excreted normally. Therefore, the colon segment innervated by the nerve needs to be removed for intestinal remodeling. At the same time, colostomy is also required to relieve intestinal dilation and obstruction.

Ostomy bag vs colostomy bag: what’s the difference?

Overall, “ostomy bag” is the general term for all ostomy bags. The types of Ostomy bags include the colostomy bag. Colostomy bag is only suitable for colostomy patients, while ostomy bag is suitable for all patients who have undergone colostomy surgery. There are significant differences between Ostomy bag vs colostomy bag in terms of definition, applicable population, nature of excrement, appearance differences, and maintenance methods.

1. Ostomy bag vs Colostomy Bag: The definitions difference

Ostomy bag: In a broad sense, it is a general term for all ostomy bags.
Colostomy bag: In a narrow sense, it specifically refers to the bag used for “colostomy”.

2.Ostomy bag vs Colostomy Bag: suitable for different groups of people

Ostomy bag: Suitable for patients undergoing any type of stoma surgery.
Colostomy bag: Only suitable for patients with colostomy, such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, trauma, etc.

3. Ostomy bag vs Colostomy Bag: Excrement properties difference

Colostomy bag: The excrement is mostly solid feces. The smell is relatively strong.
Ileostomy bag: The stool is mostly loose. It has a high enzyme content and is highly irritating to the skin.
Urostomy bag: Continuously collects urine and features an anti-backflow design.

The Ostomy bag contains the above three types.

4. Ostomy bag vs Colostomy Bag: Appearance differences

The appearance is basically similar. However, there will be design changes due to different functions (such as whether the bottom can be opened and closed, filtration devices, anti-backflow valves, etc.).

5.Ostomy bag vs Colostomy Bag: Maintenance difference

Colostomy bag: The frequency of cleaning is relatively regular.
Ileostomy bag: More attention should be paid to skin protection.
Urostomy bag: More attention should be paid to nocturnal drainage and preventing reflux.

The Ostomy bag contains the above three types.

How do I choose an ostomy bag pouching system?

Ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, which ostomy bag suits me best? Choosing the most suitable ostomy bag for oneself requires a comprehensive consideration of the following factors based on one’s own situation:

1. Stoma type: colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy

Colostomy: The stool is mostly solid or formed. You can choose a closed ostomy bag and change it directly at one time, which is more convenient and hygienic.
Ileostomy: The stool is mostly loose or liquid. You can choose the Drainable Ostomy Bag, which has an opening at the bottom for discharge and can be reused after cleaning.
Urostomy:The excrement is urine, and a dedicated urostomy bag with an anti-reflux valve and a night drainage bag interface is required.

2. Characteristics of Excrement

Solid feces: If the stool is mostly solid, a closed ostomy bag can be chosen. It can be directly replaced as a whole. The operation is simple and it is clean and hygienic.
Loose stools:If the stool is mostly loose or liquid, a Drainable Ostomy Pouch can be chosen. It can be reused after being emptied.

3. Skin sensitivity

Sensitive and fragile skin: A two-piece stoma bag can be chosen. The base can be attached to the skin for several days, and only the bag body needs to be replaced, reducing the irritation to the skin around the stoma caused by frequent base changes.
Good skin condition:You can choose a one-piece ostomy bag, which is easier and more convenient to change and also more hygienic.

4. Lifestyle

In the early stage after stoma surgery:At the initial stage of the surgery, the stoma is still in the recovery period. A transparent stoma bag or a stoma bag with a transparent observation window can be chosen to facilitate the observation of the recovery of the stoma.
Stay at home as the main focus:You can choose an emptying ostomy bag, which offers strong privacy at home and is easy to empty, clean or replace the ostomy bag.
Long-term exposure:You can choose a one-piece ostomy bag with a carbon filter. It is quick and convenient to replace. The activated carbon filter can effectively prevent the bag from swelling and the embarrassment of unpleasant odors when exposed.
Sports and fitness:You can choose a one-piece small-capacity bag, or combine it with a sealing ring and sealant, which is light, thin and concealed.

How to Change a Colostomy Bag

When comparing ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, it is also necessary to understand how to change a colostomy bag.

Before change the colostomy bag, we should prepare the necessary items: a new colostomy bag, ostomy scissors, warm water and wet wipes, glue remover, ostomy powder, sealing rings, ostomy paste, etc. Wash your hands thoroughly and keep them clean.

Gently remove the old colostomy bag and examine the stoma and the surrounding skin: the color should be bright red and moist, without secretions, swelling or ulcers.
Clean the skin around the stoma with warm water and a wet wipe. Be careful to avoid using cleaning products containing alcohol or fragrance.
Measure the diameter of the stoma and cut an opening 1-2 millimeters larger than the stoma on the bottom plate of the stoma bag.
A skin protective film can be chosen to form a protective layer.
After the skin at the stoma site dries, apply a new colostomy bag. Press gently to ensure a complete fit to the skin and avoid leakage.
Close the bottom discharge port;
Finally, check whether the colostomy bag is firmly adhered.
Discard used wet wipes and old urine bags and wash your hands.

Where should I purchase best ostomy bag pouching system?

Zodelo, as a professional ostomy bag manufacturer, We offer a comprehensive product line from entry-level to premium: Airlora Series, Calmlora Series, Mellora Series, Joylora Series and Ostomy Product Accessories.—there’s always one that fits your daily routine.

We also had ISO13485, CE, and FDA certifications, bring you the most reassuring and high-quality ostomy care.

We will also provide the most high-quality customer service and after-sales service.

Get our product catalog and contact us.

FAQs about ostomy bag vs colostomy bag?

Q1. Are colostomy bags permanent?

Whether a colostomy bag is permanent depends on the type of disease, specific circumstances and the patient’s health condition. It is generally divided into temporary colostomy and permanent colostomy.

Temporary colostomy is suitable for certain diseases that temporarily need to bypass the intestine. After the intestinal function recovers, a colostomy can be surgical-removed to allow free defecation.
Permanent colostomy is suitable for some irreversible colorectal cancers or intestinal necrosis. It requires the removal of the diseased intestine, so it is impossible to use the intestine forever. Therefore, colostomy bags need to be worn for life.

Q2. How to prevent colostomy bags smell?

Choose high-quality deodorizing bag bodies: such as the Zodelo Activated Carbon Filter series;
Empty the bag body regularly;
Use deodorant drops or sprays;
Adjust your diet structure: Consume more foods that suppress taste, such as yogurt, mint, and parsley.

Q3. What To Do When Colostomy Bag Keeps Leaking?

Replace the ostomy bag:At the same time, remeasure the diameter of the stoma, cut the base plate and make sure the opening size is 1-2mm larger than the stoma size.
Use stoma auxiliary products: Such as leak-proof rings and leak-proof pastes to enhance the adhesion between the base plate and the skin, ensure a stronger bond and better sealing performance.
Change to a more suitable ostomy bagfor yourself:You can contact a professional doctor and, based on your specific condition and living habits, modify the pouch style or choose a more adhesive base
Increase the frequency of replacement:Avoid leakage due to the ostomy bagbeing too full of contents.

Conclusion - ostomy bag vs colostomy bag

Ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, while they are different in definition, applicable population, nature of excrement, appearance differences, and maintenance methods and so on. After fully understanding ostomy bag vs colostomy bag, it is believed that all users can scientifically and reasonably care for the stoma, adjust their mindset, and restore their health and confidence.

At Zodelo, every step from material selection to meticulous craftsmanship stems from a belief: to alleviate users’ concerns and enhance their comfort. Zodelo will always be with you.

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